Description
This Thai Shrimp Soup is a vibrant, aromatic dish that captures the essence of Thai cuisine with its bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Packed with succulent shrimp, tender vegetables, and a fragrant broth infused with lemongrass, ginger, garlic, and chili, this soup delivers a perfect balance of spicy, sour, and savory notes. Finished with a splash of lime juice and creamy coconut milk, it’s a comforting yet exotic dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Serve it with steamed jasmine rice or crusty bread for a complete meal that will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 stalk lemongrass, smashed and cut into 2-inch pieces (optional, for extra fragrance)
- 1 red chili, sliced (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (plus more to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (shiitake or button mushrooms work well)
- 1 cup snap peas or bok choy (optional, for added veggies)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Steamed jasmine rice (optional)
- Lime wedges
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, smashed lemongrass (if using), and sliced red chili. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Build the Broth:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add the coconut milk, fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar (if using). Stir to combine and let the broth simmer gently for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Add Vegetables and Shrimp:
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and snap peas (or bok choy). Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
4. Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional lime juice, fish sauce, or sugar if needed. Remove the lemongrass pieces before serving.
5. Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus.
- Enjoy this fragrant Thai shrimp soup as a light meal on its own or pair it with steamed jasmine rice for a heartier dish.
- Prep Time: 10 Minutes
- Cook Time: 20 Minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Asian
